Review Summary: Part Myth Part Legend may not live up to their name yet, but they’re certainly on the right path.
Almagest Codex is an ambitious EP from a young band. Part Myth Part Legend have relied heavily on their influences to create a debut EP that wants for more creative juices, but ultimately impresses. It impresses because this is clearly a talented band and they have nowhere to go but up. It also impresses because despite wearing their influences on their sleeves, their energy and go-to-it-ness is exciting, with the listener equally enthused after hearing it. Their aggression is a bit startling considering the generally melodious nature of the music, but it does prod interest.
Easily the most distinctive part of the band’s sound is contributed by the lead male vocalist. He has a high-pitched delivery similar to Anthony Green or Charles Finn, only his vocals are even louder and more ear-splitting. I personally found his vocals a bit irritating despite my generally liking high-pitched vocals, but opinions will differ. I also noticed his voice to be nasally, which is never good. However, he hits the high notes surprisingly well (perhaps in part to autotune?) – whatever the case he certainly has pipes.
Almagest Codex is heavy on time signature toying, with some interesting song writing. The burst of screams in ‘Veneka’ after a trippy Tool-like section is brilliant; I also dig the riff-crazy moment in ‘Vita Lyrica’ at 2:23. Originally I believed the band’s sound leaned more towards Circa Survive, but I’m feeling a strong The Mars Volta vibe. They generally get their hands too dirty to sound as calm or smooth as Circa Survive. With immense vocals, crazy synthesizers, and the drummer’s pounding, frenetic fills mixed together, the result is a snowstorm that the listener is caught in the middle of.
Almagest Codex hits more than it misses despite vocals that may overstay their welcome. The EP does ultimately sound too samey, but the music is generally tasteful with enough stand-out moments and gusto to remain interesting. The band has untapped potential, but in the meantime
Almagest Codex is a great start.
